Usually when travelling, one of the most asked questions is how different the culture, the country, the life is compared to the well known. But what if the differences are not the things that surprise you, and instead you find a lot of similarities?

We took a closer look at the drinking culture of Germany and Australia and we figured, they do have a lot in common. But have a look yourself at today’s #FridayFive.

1. Frühschoppen

The German tradition of drinking before noon. Often also called “Brotzeit”, around 11 o’clock, Germans – especially Bavarians – will sit down and have a small meal of bread, butter, cheese, pickles, veal sausages (ever heard of the word “zuzeln”- if not, go and google it!), mustard and a cold Wheat Beer like the Maisel’s Weisse.

2. Sunday Session

One of Australia’s most famous drinking tradition is quite similar. The Sunday Sesh is according to the urban dictionary nothing other than the act of getting together on a Sunday to socialize and drink (likely large amounts) of alcohol. And we don’t mind it, as in theory, it gives us enough time to be in bed on time on a Sunday to be well rested for work the next day.

3. Shouts

It is common in Australia to shout a round when you’re at a pub or club with friends. Meaning nothing else than one person buying the drinks for everyone, then the next person is following up, until everyone has done its shout. We guess, it’s self-explaining that missing out on your round is revolting social behavior. If you do, apologize with Kleiner Feigling.

4. Staying in before going out

Especially in the early 20ties, Germans like to pre-heat/pre-party. As Clubs and scenic bars won’t be crowded before midnight, Germans like to meet up at a friend’s place for social sit-ins and have a few drinks there first. Not only, because it is cheaper, but to make sure time is passing quicker and you can finally hit the road. If you actually go… it’s not uncommon that a pre-party becomes the actual party and any plans on going out are dismissed.

5. The BBQ

As much as Australians can’t live without their Barbie, Germans love their summer-barbecue-beer nights. Unfortunately, the weather isn’t always as sunny as in Australia, so some of these planned nights end up with dinner inside while meat and veggies are being cooked on a balcony or a roof terrace. All you need is friends or family, cold drinks and food – and the perfect night is guaranteed.